1962 Mercedes-Benz W111 220SEb 3.5L Cabriolet – $119,900 RNM

(NOTE: Click on the picture to stop the slide show and expand the pictures. Scroll down to see all photographs)

August 16, 2023 Update – The seller communicated that he sold their Mercedes-Benz through another channel, so we thank him for the opportunity and wish he and the buyer nothing but the best.

August 9, 2023 Update – The high bid did not meet the seller’s reserve price of $119,900, so we’ve moved this vehicle to our “Rides Still Available Page.”  Click the blue button above or below to navigate to this ride’s bid page, where you can either select the green “Buy Now” button or place a realistic counteroffer in the “Bid” box.

GuysWithRides.com is pleased to offer Lot 238, a restored and powertrain-upgraded 1962 Mercedes-Benz W111 220SEb Cabriolet for sale in an online, reserve-price auction on behalf of the current caretaker.

Bidding opened Wednesday, July 26, 2023, and closed Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at 6:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time.

Mercedes-Benz produced several iterations of its W111-Based “Fin Tail” two-door cabriolet from 1961 through 1971.  The vast majority of W111s featured inline-six powerplants. However, the most desirable of the series launched in 1969, was the 280SE version featuring the then-new and highly desirable M116 195 horsepower 3.5L V8.  Mercedes-Benz produced only 4,502 units produced between 1969 and 1971.  Consequently, a real-deal 280SE Cabriolet will currently set you back between $300,000 and $400,000.

As part of its restoration, the 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb featured here had its original inline-six powerplant replaced with a 3.5 Liter M116 V8 and matching automatic transmission.  Think of our offering as a poor man’s 280SE Cabriolet, as it represents a unique opportunity to own and drive a tribute for a fraction of the price.

This 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb currently resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico, as part of the current caretaker’s collection.

The Deets

Year 1962
Make Mercedes-Benz
Model 280SEb Cabriolet
Location Santa Fe, New Mexico
Mileage TMU
VIN 11102310029245
Exterior Color Metallic Red
Interior Color Bucksin Leather
Engine 195 hp 3.5 Liter M116 V8
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Gas
 
The 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet is a classic luxury convertible representing the pinnacle of its era’s automotive engineering and design. Mercedes-Benz, renowned for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, introduced the 220SEb as part of its W111 series, which was produced from 1959 to 1968.  The 1962 220SEb Cabriolet features a timeless and elegant design. The body is sculpted with smooth, flowing lines, giving it a refined and sophisticated appearance. It sits on a wheelbase of approximately 106.3 inches, providing ample space for occupants while maintaining a balanced and harmonious overall look.

The front end of the cabriolet showcases the iconic Mercedes-Benz star emblem prominently placed in the center of a stylish grille. Chrome accents adorn the bumpers, grille, and trim, adding a touch of luxury and complementing the vehicle’s overall aesthetic.  The convertible top is made of high-quality canvas and can be manually operated, transforming the car from a cozy coupe-like interior to an open-air driving experience.  Step inside, and a luxurious and well-crafted interior will greet you. The cabin offers a perfect blend of comfort and functionality, with attention to detail evident in every aspect of its design. Plush leather seats provide ample support for both the driver and passengers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.  Wood veneer accents grace the dashboard and door panels, adding a touch of warmth and sophistication to the interior. The instrument cluster features classic analog gauges, displaying vital information such as speed, fuel level, engine temperature, and more.  While the technology of the 1960s might not compare to modern standards, the 220SEb Cabriolet was well-equipped for its time. Power windows, power-adjustable front seats, and a Becker radio were some of the optional features available. Air conditioning was a rare feature, especially in the Cabriolet versions; the example featured here comes equipped with working A/C.

Under the hood, the 220SEb was powered by a robust 2.2-liter inline-six engine. It is equipped with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, making it one of the first cars to use this technology. This engine configuration could produce around 120 to 134 horsepower, offering sufficient power for a smooth and refined driving experience. However, the example featured in this auction is now powered by a Mercedes-Benz M116 197 horsepower 3.5 Liter V8 with a matching four-speed automatic transmission.  The car’s suspension system was well-engineered, providing a balanced and comfortable ride, making it ideal for city driving and long-distance journeys.

The 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet is considered a rare and highly sought-after classic car today. Its scarcity, timeless design, and outstanding build quality have made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. Owning a well-maintained example of this classic car is a statement of appreciation for automotive history and a symbol of refined taste.  Overall, the 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet remains an enduring symbol of luxury, craftsmanship, and timeless design, reflecting the very best of Mercedes-Benz’s heritage and reputation for excellence.

The current caretaker reports that a prior owner commissioned the excellent paint and interior restoration, which included replacing most of the wood trim and the leather seats and replaced the convertible top.  Under his current ownership since August 2021, the seller had the following items addressed:

Rebuilt 3.5L V8 engine
Rebuilt transmission
Replaced master brake cylinder Regulators Repaired & Adjusted Rear Windows Chrome Repaired Chrome Trim
Seat Tracks Repaired & Adjusted
Rebuilt Alternator
Repair & Replace Heater Parts
New Engine Torque Damper
New Fuel Lines
New Water Pump
New Spark Plug Wires & Plugs, New Fan Clutch, New Battery
New Air Filter
New Tires
New Igniter & Resistor
New Breather Hose
New fuel-sending unit
New gasoline intake vent and filler cap
Replace the air idle valve
Install windshield washer pump and reservoir
Replaced turn signal switch
Replaced oil pressure gauge
Replaced gear shift assembly
Rebuilt speedometer/odometer
 
While the seller reports the air conditioning is operational, he notes the heater and defroster controls need attention to operate properly.  He also notes that while the power windows are operational, they can be slow to raise.

To help you make informed bids, we’re providing a link to Classic.com’s Values for 220SEb Models, the analytics and search engine for the Classic Car market, that provides a summary of other recently sold Mercedes 220SEb models.  In this unique instance, as a reference price, Classic.com’s Values for 280SE versions illustrate what a value the “Poor Man’s 280SE Cabriolet” we are offering here represents.

If you have any questions about this 1962 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet for sale, please leave a comment below or feel free to call Rudy directly at 877-468-6497.  Thank you for looking and happy bidding!

2 Comments
  1. 1962 Mercedes-Benz W111 220SEb 3.5L Cabriolet – $119,900 RNM

    Where exactly on the website/listing do we go to see more photos?

    Reply
    • 1962 Mercedes-Benz W111 220SEb 3.5L Cabriolet – $119,900 RNM

      Good news: We just completed adding all of the seller-provided pictures and driving video.

      Reply

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